Following on from the release of previous Alternate Reality models such as the Meteora, Powercaster and Sixty-Six, the Alternate Reality Electric XII sees Fender put a modern spin on one of the most overlooked instruments from their back catalogue. First made in 1965, the Electric XII was released at the height of the jangly folk-rock boom of the era, and found users in the likes of Ray Davies, Tim Buckley, Bob Dylan and Pete Townshend.
Unlike other models in the series, the Alternate Reality Electric XII doesn’t stray too far from the essence of the original instrument. It boasts distinctive dual split-coil pickups – think like a P Bass – which can be selected via a three-way switch to be engaged in unison or on their own. As implied by the name of the instrument, the Alternate Reality Electric XII features a unique 12-string hardtail bridge with adjustable individual saddles and a classic 12-string hockey stick headstock.
Specs-wise, it’s got a maple neck with a Modern-C profile, while a 9.5″ fretboard radius and 22 medium-jumbo frets gives you the freedom to freak the folk out as you please. The Alternate Reality Electric XII is available in Lake Placid Blue, Three Colour Sunburst and Olympic White finishes, comes with a deluxe padded gig bag, and is available to purchase now.
Head to Fender’s website for more details.
